Roobenraj Velayutham, a badminton player hailing from Kulim, Kedah, has reached a noteworthy milestone in his career. His recent appointment as the coach of the Iraq national badminton team has garnered widespread attention and acclaim. This achievement is particularly significant as it highlights the recognition and honor bestowed upon a Malaysian Indian, evoking a sense of pride among both the nation and the Malaysian Indian community.
Initially, Roobenraj began his badminton journey as a player representing the state of Kedah. From the age of 13 to 18, he earned a position on the Malaysian national team, specifically as a member of the mixed doubles team, receiving guidance and support from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM). His formative years under BAM’s guidance instilled in him a deep understanding of the game’s nuances and strategies, laying a solid foundation for his future endeavors.
From there, Rooben transitioned into coaching, leveraging his extensive experience and expertise to nurture budding talents. His passion for badminton led him to delve into personal coaching, where he honed his skills in shaping the next generation of players. In 2022, Rooben’s dedication and proficiency caught the attention of the Qatar Badminton Club, which offered him a coaching position. Embracing the opportunity, he brought his wealth of knowledge to the club, contributing significantly to its development.
The following year marked a significant milestone in Rooben’s coaching career when he was appointed as the coach for the VSMASH Badminton Academy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. In 2023, Rooben further solidified his credentials by obtaining a coaching certificate from the Badminton World Federation (BWF), demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. The pinnacle of Rooben’s coaching journey came in this year, where he was appointed as the head coach of the Iraqi national badminton team. This prestigious role not only recognizes his exceptional coaching abilities but also presents a new challenge and opportunity to make a significant impact on the global badminton stage.
When Varnam Malaysia had a close up with Roobenraj to know on what inspired his passion for badminton and led him to pursue it as his sport of choice, he said that:
“My father ignited my passion for badminton during my formative years. When I was a child, he was the first to introduce me to the sport, patiently guiding me on how to hold the racquet and teaching me the fundamentals of badminton. Whether it was weekends or after school, he dedicated his time to take me and my brothers to the court, where we would spend countless hours honing our skills. His unwavering support and encouragement laid the foundation for our deep immersion into the sport, eventually propelling me to national player status and my current role as a coach.
Alongside my father, my mother and brothers played pivotal roles in nurturing my badminton journey. Their constant presence and unwavering support served as my motivation and pillar of strength. Through every triumph and setback, they stood by me, providing the encouragement and guidance needed to excel in the sport. Their belief in my abilities fueled my determination, shaping me into the player and coach I am today. Together, their collective support formed the backbone of my badminton career, instilling in me the resilience and dedication required to succeed at the highest levels.”
The supportive family of Rooben has been instrumental in his success in his sports career. Earlier, Rooben submitted his resume to the Iraqi badminton team, and they were pleased to offer him the coaching position, recognizing his qualifications and suitability for the role. Notably, during his appointment as the coach of the Iraqi badminton team, key figures such as Mr. Haval Abdelaziz Mohammed, the president of the Central Badminton Federation, and Mr. Laith Khader, representing the Iraqi Olympic Committee in Erbil, were present. Additionally, members of the union, Mr. Mohamed Delshad Gaberiel and Mr. Van Shouky, attended the appointment ceremony. Rooben has signed a one-year contract with the Iraqi badminton team and commenced his duties as a coach last week.
When queried about his future plans with the Iraqi badminton team, he said:
“When it comes to the future of the Iraqi badminton team, my vision is clear. I aim to propel us onto the international stage with greater force and visibility. I’m here to offer more than just coaching; I’m here to mentor, to inspire, and to instill a winning mentality in every member of our team. Together, we’ll work tirelessly to hone our skills, refine our strategies, and compete at the highest level possible.
My commitment extends beyond the court. I want to create an environment where our players feel supported, motivated, and empowered to achieve their dreams. Whether it’s through intensive training sessions, mental conditioning, or strategic planning, I’ll leave no stone unturned in our quest for success. Ultimately, my aim is to see our team produce not just good players, but exceptional ones—champions who proudly carry the Iraqi flag on the global stage. With determination, hard work, and unwavering support, I believe we can achieve greatness together.”
Rooben’s unwavering love for his passion and his dedication towards his team radiate through every word as he speaks about the future of the Iraqi badminton team. It’s more than just a job for him; it’s a calling, a mission to uplift and empower his players to reach their fullest potential. He doesn’t just aim for mediocrity; he dreams of producing exceptional players who will proudly carry the Iraqi flag on the global stage. With determination, hard work, and his unwavering support, Rooben believes that together, they can achieve greatness and leave a lasting legacy in the world of badminton.
How do you feel about being appointed as the coach for the Iraq badminton team?
I am truly overwhelmed by the magnitude of this opportunity and the profound sense of gratitude that fills my heart. It’s a moment of immense joy for me to be standing here, embracing this new chapter in my life with open arms. In this moment, I feel compelled to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family, who have been my unwavering support system throughout my journey. Their unwavering love and encouragement have carried me through every challenge and setback, instilling in me the resilience and determination to pursue my dreams relentlessly.
Rooben’s mentor: Mr Sambanthen Sivaperumal
I am also deeply indebted to my mentors, Mr. Sambanthen and Mr. Thanabalan. Their guidance and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping my journey as a player and now as a coach. Their wisdom, experience, and unwavering belief in my potential have fueled my growth and development, inspiring me to push beyond my limits and strive for excellence.
Rooben’s mentor: Mr Thanabalan Arikrishnan
I must also express my heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Van Shawqi Gilyana, the secretary of the Iraq federation. From the moment I arrived, his warm welcome and genuine hospitality have made me feel not just welcomed, but truly valued. His unwavering support and exceptional care have eased my transition into this new role, providing me with a sense of belonging and assurance. He has gone above and beyond to ensure that I am well-supported and equipped to fulfill my duties as the coach of the Iraqi badminton team. Whether it’s offering guidance, providing resources, or simply lending a listening ear, his willingness to assist has been invaluable. Thanks to Mr. Van’s unwavering dedication and genuine concern for the well-being of others, I am confident that I can contribute positively to the team and make a meaningful impact in my new role.
Roobenraj’s journey from a talented badminton player to the esteemed coach of the Iraq national badminton team is a reflection of his unwavering spirit, deep sense of responsibility, and boundless love for the sport. His relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with the unwavering support of his family, mentors, and colleagues, has propelled him to this remarkable milestone. Rooben serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing what dedication, passion, and determination can achieve. He is a pride of the nation, and Malaysian Indians should be proud to have him represent their community on the global stage of badminton. With his vision, leadership, and commitment, there’s no doubt that Rooben will continue to soar to greater heights, leaving an indelible mark on the world of badminton. Best wishes accompany him on his future endeavors, confident that he will continue to inspire and elevate the sport to new horizons.
